IBTimes.co.uk: Reds lock horns for Roma ace

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.

Liverpool are reportedly set to revive their interest in Lazio defender Modibo Diakite and would battle it out with Roma for the player's signature.

The 26-year-old, who will be a free agent in the summer, was heavily linked to the Reds in January, after the player's representative Ulisse Savini stated Anfield was his client's preferred destination.

However, the agent backtracked on those comments a month later and revealed the centre-back was close to signing for Napoli.

However, according to talkSPORT, Diakite's transfer to Naples has now broken down. The player failed to reach an agreement with the Italians, giving Liverpool a second chance to snap up their man.

Brendan Rodgers is in the market for a central defender to replace Jamie Carragher, who is set to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

Diakite joined Lazio from fellow Italian side Pescara back in 2006. The Frenchman, who is of Senegalese descent, has impressed with the Serie A side and is now one of the most sought-after central defenders in Italy.

The report also claims Liverpool are facing some tough competition from Lazio's local rivals Roma, who are keen to prise Diakite away from the Giallorossi and make a statement.

However, the player is understood to have reservations about leaving his club for their fierce rivals.